Five Years of Marriage to Mr. Bradford (by Koi Fish) novel Chapter 34

“Here, have a drumstick.” Adeline eagerly served Vance with tongs.

“No, no, give it to Soren. It’s his special day,” Vance replied, shifting his plate aside.

Rebecca snorted inwardly, knowing the real reason. Vance disliked their bland cooking; he craved spice but detested grease. That pallid chicken, slick with oil, hit every aversion.

Yet Adeline’s zeal was unstoppable. She piled his plate high with food. 1

Watching Vance’s concealed discomfort, Rebecca felt a flicker of schadenfreude. In the past, she’d discreetly transfer portions to her plate to spare him, but not today. He’d have to deal with it himself.

He cast pleading glances her way, but she feigned ignorance. Resigned, he nibbled slowly, struggling with each bite.

Adeline turned to her. “Becky…”

Here it came again. The affectionate appellation always signaled a favor aimed at Vance, but routed through Rebecca.

Adeline was cunning in that aspect, complaining to Rebecca and guilt–trapping Vance. That was Rebecca’s role here–a mere conduit.

“Becky,” Adeline beamed, her eyes crinkling. “We’ve got good news at home!”

Rebecca offered no response. Their “good news” never included her, unless it involved extracting money.

Undeterred by the silence, Adeline plowed on. “Emmett has got a girlfriend.”

Rebecca remained mute, but Vance chimed in politely, “That’s great. Congrats.”

Rebecca sneered inwardly. “Congrats? How much is that worth in cash?”

“Yeah, we’re thrilled. It’s just…” Adeline lit up, then sighed. “Her family’s demands are so high. They insist on a new house before marriage.”

“A new house?” Rebecca frowned. “Isn’t this one already bought for Emmett’s wedding?”

Years ago, they had guilted Vance into funding it under the same pretext.

Adeline winced dramatically. “Girls these days are so picky. She won’t accept a lived–in place; it has to be brand new, with her name on the deed.”

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